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Situated in Gujarat’s Gir Forest region, Devaliya National Park is a well-known sanctuary that has gained recognition for its efforts to safeguard the endangered Asiatic lions. It is a major conservation area that offers these magnificent animals and other wildlife a safe sanctuary. The Gir Forest environment, which is renowned for its unique flora and animals, includes the park. It is a popular site for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers because of the possibility of encountering Asiatic lions, leopards, chital, sambar deer, and several kinds of bird species.
Location
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This national park is located approximately 50 kilometres away from Gujarat’s Junagadh and around 45 km from Keshod. It’s roughly 165 kilometres from Rajkot and 365 km from Ahmedabad. It is just 390 km from Surat, another major city in Gujarat. Gir Forest National region, the main entry point for visitors, offers access to the area. For visitors wishing to see the Gir region’s wildlife, it is a popular location thanks to its close distance to the major cities in Gujarat. Devaliya National Park address is easy to navigate.
How To Reach
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By Air: About 47 kilometres distant, at Keshod, is the closest airport to Devaliya National Park. To get to the park from Keshod, take public transportation or rent a cab. The other choice is to fly into Rajkot Airport, which is located about 165 km away from the park.
By Road: Road connections to the national park are excellent. Visitors can take a car or taxi from Junagadh, which is around 50 km away, and drive to the park. It is generally easy to navigate on well-maintained roads.
By Rail: About 50 kilometres from the park is the nearest train station, Junagadh Railway Station. To get to the national park, take a bus or a taxi from the station. There are regular trains to Junagadh from major cities like Rajkot and Ahmedabad.
Places To Visit Near Devaliya National Park
Places near Devaliya National Park are essential stops for visitors planning on visiting the national park. These places add a lot of value to the overall experience.
1. Sasan Gir
Photo: Yash Prajapati / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A tiny town called Sasan Gir, which is next to Gir Forest National Park, is the entry point to the lion reserve. It offers guests with a range of lodging options and facilities. Sasan Gir is famous for its thriving local culture and the Gir Interpretation Zone, which offers knowledge on the region’s animals and conservation initiatives. For easy access to the national park, this is the perfect place to stay.
Distance: About 65 km from the national park
Timings: 24*7
2. Shree Somnath Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The Shree Somnath Temple serves as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. With its intricate sculptures and significance in history, the Hindu temple is both a work of art and an important pilgrimage site. For people who have an interest in religious and cultural history, the temple will be worth a visit because of its peaceful coastline location, which heightens its spiritual mood.
Distance: About 45 km away from the national park
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
3. Mandvi Beach
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Mandvi Beach is a beautiful beach resort known for its immaculate sand and calm waters. In addition to offering many kinds of water sports and activities, the beach is perfect for relaxing. The national park’s focus on wildlife is nicely contrasted by Mandvi’s charming seashore setting and the nearby old Vijay Vilas Palace. It is a perfect destination for people who enjoy watersports and the ocean.
Distance: Around 250 km from the national park
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Things To Do At Devaliya National Park
Devaliya National Park activities include thrilling safaris, bird watching and hiking. Here is what you can enjoy at the national park.
1. Wildlife Safaris
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Experience an exhilarating jeep safari to witness Asiatic lions in their native habitat. In addition to offering guided tours throughout its varied landscapes, the park is inhabited by sambar deer, chital, and leopards. Safaris can be booked in both the morning and the afternoon when visitors have the best chances to see wildlife living inside the national park.
Location: Gujarat’s Gir region
Timings: 6 AM – 9 AM and 3 PM – 6 PM
2. Bird Watching
Photo: daniyal ghanavati / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Lots of species of birds, such as raptors, storks, and waterfowl, can be seen in the national park. To make your bird-watching experience even more enjoyable, bring binoculars and a field guide. The best time to see a variety of species of birds is during the early morning. It is suggested to arrive early in the morning if you plan to watch birds at Devaliya National Park.
Location: Gujarat’s Gir region
Timings: 6 AM – 9 AM
Where To Stay
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Lodges like the Gir Forest Lodge and the Lion Safari Camp, which are situated close to Gir Forest National Park and about 65 km from Devaliya, are great choices for a luxurious stay. These resorts offer first-rate facilities, including luxurious accommodations and guided safari expeditions. In the Junagadh area, lodging options such as Hotel Somnath and The Gir Resort offer decent mid-range accommodations with basic facilities and convenient access to the park. Visitors on a tight budget might choose from motels or affordable lodging in Junagadh, including Hotel Shree or Hotel Ashoka offer basic services at reasonable prices.
Where To Eat
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Savour authentic Gujarati cuisine at local restaurants in Junagadh, around 50 km from the park, such as Kashiway or Oregano. These restaurants serve thalis and other local dishes. Try the dining area at The Gir Forest Lodge or the restaurant at Lion Safari Camp, which serves a mix of continental and local cuisine and is about 65 km from Devaliya, for a more broadened menu. Enjoy small meals and drinks at cafés like Chai Tapri or Cafe Coffee Day in Junagadh. These places present a nice diversion from your animal explorations.
Best Time To Visit
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The lenient months of November to March, when the weather is nice and the wildlife is more active, are the best times for visiting Devaliya National Park. The most suitable season to observe and photograph animals is around this time of year. Around the height of the monsoon season (June to October), the national park is closed due to heavy rains and slick conditions which make exploration difficult and spotting wildlife is quite difficult during these months. Summer is another preferred season by visitors for visiting this national park with their children.
Other Factors To Consider
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Entry Fee Of Devaliya National Park
Devaliya National Park ticket price is ₹200 ($ 1.79) on weekdays and ₹250 ($ 2.98) on weekends. Foreigners have to pay ₹3356.98 ($ 40) on weekdays and ₹4196.22 ($ 50) on weekends and holidays.
Tips For Travellers
- Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid making loud noises that could stress them.
- Bring your camera to click Devaliya National Park photos.
- Limited facilities are available inside the park, so bring your own refreshments.
- Adhere to all park regulations and guidelines to ensure safety and preserve the natural habitat.
Devaliya National Park provides an amazing look into the Gir Forest region’s biodiversity, with an especially strong focus on the Asiatic lion. It is an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts because of the wide range of species of plants and animals, well-maintained facilities, and highly qualified guides. So, book your trip with TripXL and explore the beauty of this national park.
Cover Photo: Gareth Davies / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
